Today I went to Bangor Worldwide Missionary Convention, for the morning Bible Reading. Rev Hugh Palmer was speaking on 1 Corinthians. He had some good things to say.

1. The cross creates the fundamental division in the human race- saved or not. We should respond to less important divisions (v10-13) with this true division.

2. Only the message of the cross, the power of God, can save. We must keep telling the message.

(Why is my margin not straight!!??)

The cross doesn't appear to be miraculous or wise- on it hung a broken saviour, foolishness by the standards of philosophy and worldly wisdom.

3. No one should boast about academic achievements, sporting prowess, business acumen or anything else. Status and security is only found in knowing the Lord (v31) Societies love strength, wealth, and wisdom. But we aren’t supposed to imitate society. Remember God's values. There is a danger in parading 'high profile' Christians. Mission is reaching the 'despised, lowly' people that God has chosen to enjoy eternity with.

4. Paul didn't want to 'press the right buttons' or just say what people wanted to hear. He only wanted to share the 'message of the cross'. Do preachers want people to say 'what a preacher!' or 'what a saviour!'?